Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Tartlets

Name: Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Tartlets
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 egg yolk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making chocolate-covered strawberry tartlets for gatherings. These little treats are not only visually stunning, but they're also a delicious blend of fresh strawberries and rich chocolate. The buttery crust perfectly complements the sweet and tart strawberries, while the dark chocolate adds a luxurious finish. Every time I prepare them, I’m reminded of the joy they bring to the table. It’s the perfect dessert for impressing guests or simply indulging myself on a quiet evening.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:50:40.412Z

During one of my recent baking adventures, I decided to create something that combined classic flavors in a fun, bite-sized format. After some experimenting with crusts and fillings, I landed on these tartlets. Fresh strawberries nestled in a rich chocolate ganache on a buttery crust is a combination that truly resonates with everyone I share them with. I always make sure to use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.

The process is surprisingly simple, yet the result feels elegant and special. I recommend letting the ganache cool and thicken a bit before adding the strawberries on top, as this helps them stay in place and adds that extra touch of sophistication. Trust me, these tartlets will be the star of your dessert table!

        Why You'll Love These Tartlets
        A delightful combination of fresh strawberries and rich chocolate
Individual portions that are perfect for sharing or enjoying alone
Elegant presentation makes them ideal for any occasion

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When creating chocolate-covered strawberry tartlets, the quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the final flavor. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a richer, more complex taste. This chocolate ensures a luxurious ganache that beautifully complements the tartness of fresh strawberries. Moreover, selecting ripe strawberries can elevate the dish – look for berries that are firm, bright red, and fragrant for the best results.

Additionally, the butter used in the crust should be unsalted and at room temperature. This aids in achieving a tender and flaky texture, crucial for balancing the sweet filling. Avoid shortcuts like margarine; the distinct flavor and quality of butter are what make this pastry shine. Ensure that your ingredients are fresh, particularly the cream and strawberries, as their natural flavors are essential to the success of the tartlets.

Mastering the Tartlet Technique

Creating the ideal crust can be tricky. After mixing your ingredients, be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough texture. Instead, mix just until combined, then refrigerate. This chilling step not only makes the dough easier to handle but also helps the fat solidify, preventing shrinkage during baking. Look for a light golden color on the edges of the crust after baking to ensure it is perfectly cooked.

While filling the tartlet shells, spoon in the chocolate ganache while it is still pourable but has sat long enough to thicken slightly. This makes it easier to fill the shells and allows for a smooth and glossy surface. Pressing the strawberries gently into the ganache helps to create a beautiful presentation and ensures they stay in place when serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delectable tartlets:

For the crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved

Make sure to have these ingredients on hand so you can whip up these delicious tartlets without a hitch!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your chocolate-covered strawberry tartlets:

Prepare the crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, butter, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Press the dough into tartlet pans evenly across the bottom and up the sides. Chill for 15 minutes, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until golden.

Make the chocolate ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just boiling, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Allow the ganache to cool slightly.

Assemble the tartlets

Spoon the chocolate ganache into the cooled tartlet crusts, filling them generously. Arrange the halved strawberries on top, pressing them gently into the ganache.

Chill and serve

Refrigerate the tartlets for at least 30 minutes to set the ganache. Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Don't forget to let them chill before serving, as this will enhance the flavor and texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted white chocolate on top of the strawberries before serving. This adds a lovely color contrast and a hint of sweetness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These chocolate-covered strawberry tartlets can be prepared ahead of time, making them ideal for gatherings. Once assembled, the tartlets will keep well in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be aware that the strawberries may start to release juice and affect the overall texture slightly if kept for too long. If you want to make them even further in advance, prepare the crust and ganache separately, then assemble just before serving.

For optimal freshness, cover the tartlets with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. If you're worried about the strawberries wilting or looking less appealing, consider using only the ganache to fill the tartlets and adding the strawberries just before serving. This ensures the tartlets look vibrant and appetizing.

Variations to Try

This recipe is versatile! If you want to experiment, try adding a layer of flavored mousse, such as vanilla or white chocolate, under the ganache. This will add an intriguing flavor dimension and a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries. To add a touch of acidity, consider a thin layer of lemon curd, which imparts a refreshing zing that balances the sweetness of the chocolate and strawberries.

You can also switch up the type of chocolate based on your preference. Milk chocolate provides a sweeter flavor profile, while a combination of dark and white chocolate creates a striking visual contrast. Feel free to incorporate other fruits, such as raspberries or sliced kiwi, to broaden the flavor palette of your tartlets, while still keeping the core recipe intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind it will be sweeter than dark chocolate.

→ How do I store leftover tartlets?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these tartlets?

Yes, you can freeze the unassembled tartlets for up to a month. Just add the strawberries and ganache when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for strawberries?

You can substitute with raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.